Constancia Lynn Russell

Constancia Lynn Russell (Wilson), a woman of extraordinary intellect, boundless compassion, and steadfast faith, peacefully entered eternal rest on December 7, 2025. Her life was a radiant testament to love, service, and devotion—to God, to her family, and to every life she touched. Constancia lived with intention, grace, and joy, pouring herself out generously in every season. Her impact is immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to guide and inspire all who loved her.

Constancia was the beloved wife of Michael, with whom she shared a rich, faith-filled, and deeply loving life. She was the remarkable mother of five children: David Wendt (girlfriend Michelle Morin), Vayahn Onuselogu (Bryan Onuselogu), Zachary Wendt (Nicole Wendt), Eli Wendt, and Isaac Wendt (Emma Wendt). She delighted in being “Nana” to her cherished grandchildren—Silas, Solomon, Irie, David, and Samson—each of whom she loved fiercely. Through her marriage to Michael, she lovingly gained 3 wonderful stepchildren: Seana Tolbert, Kristian Tolbert (LaTanya Tolbert), and Andrea Russell, as well as 7 very special grandchildren: A'arrah, Remyah, KaMiya, Amarie, K.J., Avontay, and Azurite.

She was preceded in death by her father Wardell DuBois Wilson, her mother Gertrude Elaine McRae Wilson, her brother Daryle Wilson, and several beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents.

Born in Detroit, Michigan on December 14, 1962, Constancia was marked from an early age by a profound sense of purpose. Her deepest identity was found in Christ. She was a believer, a servant, and a vessel of encouragement whose faith guided every step she took. Through mission work, mentoring, preaching, and prayer, she poured into others with both boldness and tenderness. Even as she battled ovarian cancer, her heart remained turned outward, reaching out to fellow fighters and survivors offering comfort, wisdom, and unwavering hope.

Constancia taught her family the most important lesson in life: to know Jesus and to love Him wholeheartedly. She was someone you could trust with your heart, your fears, and your dreams. She gave counsel that calmed, hugs that healed, and prayers that carried weight.

A lifelong learner and multi-passionate woman, Constancia’s curiosity never dimmed. She proudly graduated from Cass Technical High School Class of 1981, earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Wayne State University, and her master’s in teaching/education from Indiana University. A true language enthusiast, she spoke several languages fluently and delighted in studying words, cultures, and communication. Her gifts of expression were abundant, and she used these skills for interpretation as well as to pen books, gardening devotionals, music in several languages, and love letters that revealed her creativity, insight, and gentleness.

Constancia became a Master Gardener through The Ohio State University, cultivating beauty in her garden and in the hearts of all she nurtured. She was a world traveler who embraced culture and wonder wherever she went. With a quick wit and a joyful sense of competition, she fiercely loved word games and puzzles and was always convinced she would win.

She was an advocate in the truest sense: standing faithfully for children, minorities, refugees, immigrants, and victims of trafficking, as well as devoting many working years to Latino Outreach. She served as a La Leche League leader, supporting countless mothers in their earliest and most vulnerable moments with empathy and a servant’s heart. She homeschooled her five children with devotion, patience, and excellence, later extending her gifts into the local public school system, Department of Defense schools in South Korea, Terra State Community College, and Sisters In Shelter.

Constancia lived fully, loved deeply, and served faithfully. She was so very loved, truly cherished, and will be always missed.

Constancia's viewing will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m., at James H. Cole Funeral Home, 2624 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, MI; her homegoingcelebration will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.at Parkside Church of Christ, 17200 Outer Drive W., Dearborn Heights, MI. Constancia will be laid to rest at Roseland Park Cemetery in Berkley, MI following the service.

Financial gifts may be made to Global Christian Relief in Constancia’s honor; or directly to the James H. Cole Funeral Home, Detroit MI for the benefit of her 12 grandchildren.